Who is the distance learning programme in Business and IT at IU suitable for?

With your B.Sc. in Business and IT, you can work as a software developer, business analyst, or IT consultant, for example.
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The distance learning programme in Business and IT at IU International University is aimed at individuals who want to work at the interface of business administration and information technology. It is specifically designed for those interested in the digitalisation of business processes and who wish to combine their technical interest with economic thinking. The programme is particularly suitable for professionals who want to academically qualify themselves alongside their job, for high school graduates with a university entrance qualification, and for career changers from the IT or business administration fields who want to deepen their competencies at an academic level. Individuals with a technical background aiming for leadership or expert roles in IT management or IT consultancy will also find a solid foundation in this programme.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Bachelor's programme in Business and IT (B.Sc., 180 ECTS) is possible through various pathways:

• With a general higher education entrance qualification (Abitur): Classic university access with the German Abitur.
• With a subject-specific higher education entrance qualification: Corresponding academic prerequisites allowing access to specific fields of study.
• With a university of applied sciences entrance qualification (Fachabitur): Both academic and practical components required.

International educational qualifications: Equivalency assessments of qualifications (e.g. IB Diploma) are carried out by IU according to Anabin, among others.

Even without an Abitur, entry into the programme is possible - the following professional qualifications grant access:

• Master craftsman's certificate (e.g. Master Craftspersons).
• Advanced training qualifications (e.g. Chamber of Industry and Commerce specialists, state-certified business administrators).
• Vocational training & practical experience: At least two years of recognised vocational training in Germany plus at least three years of full-time professional experience.
• In the case of a non-related professional education, a trial study is undertaken to assess academic aptitude.

Additional proof of German language proficiency is required for international applicants in the German-language programme (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, Telc German B2, ÖSD B2). Language certificates are generally not older than five years.

For the English-language programme, one of the following proofs must be provided:

• TOEFL (at least 80 points)
• IELTS (at least 6.0)
• Duolingo English Test (at least 95)
• Cambridge Certificate (overall grade at least B)
• Not required if English is the mother tongue or a first degree was completed in English.

There is no numerus clausus (NC). The study programme can be started at any time, with no admission deadlines. Those interested can test the distance learning programme for four weeks as a trial month free of charge.

Personal Requirements

• Interest in IT, digitalisation, and business processes.
• Willingness to address both technical and business-related issues.
• Good self-organisation and motivation for independent learning.
• Basic knowledge of mathematics and logical reasoning are beneficial.
• Flexibility and openness to online learning formats and digital tools.

Since the programme is 100% online, basic computer skills and a secure handling of digital media are recommended. While professional experience is not mandatory, it provides additional advantages for practical tasks and recognition of prior learning.

What you learn in the distance learning course Business and IT at IU

The Bachelor's programme in Business and IT at IU International University combines the core areas of business administration and computer science. You will be prepared to work as a specialist or manager at the interface between business and IT. The study contents are aligned with the recommendations of the Society for Computer Science (GI) and cover economic fundamentals, business informatics subjects, and computer science.

• Computer Science: You will deal with object-oriented programming (especially in Java and Python), data modeling, database systems, as well as topics such as IT security, data analytics, and big data.
• Business Studies: Subjects such as business administration, cost accounting, investment and financing, and marketing are the focus here. You will also learn basics such as accounting and balance sheet.
• Business Informatics: IT and ERP systems, IT project management, and digital business models are among the central module contents. You will also deal with process management and requirements engineering.

The practical relevance is ensured through numerous project work, seminars, and the option of an optional internship in the course of study. In addition, you have the choice of several specialization modules, such as:

• Software Engineering with Python
• Business Intelligence
• IT Service Management
• Machine Learning and AI
• Mobile Software Engineering
• Augmented, Mixed and Virtual Reality
• Supply Chain Management
• E-Commerce and Digital Media

In addition, modules on personality development, intercultural competence, law and ethics, and collaborative work are available to you. A modern element is the optional specialization in Artificial Intelligence with current AI modules, so you are well prepared for future requirements in professional life.

How the distance learning course works

The distance learning course in Business and IT at IU is completely flexible and digitally organized:

• Individual start of studies: You can start at any time - enrollment is possible all year round.
• Three time models: Full-time (36 months), Part-time I (48 months), or Part-time II (72 months). A change is possible at any time if your life situation changes.
• Learning at your own pace: You determine when, where, and for how long you learn. Presence phases are not necessary - all teaching materials are digital and mobile accessible.
• Digital tools and AI assistance: With the online campus myCampus, the IU Learn app, and the AI-supported university chatbot Syntea, you receive modern learning support and have access to study materials, video lectures, interactive books, and quiz questions.
• Learning formats and examinations: In addition to self-study, you can attend optional live tutorials or virtual seminars. Examinations (exams, term papers, presentations) take place almost all independently of location and time - either online (including online proctoring) or in nationwide examination centres.
• Support: Over 200 professors and more than 1,000 tutors are available to you for professional and organizational questions.
• Recognition of previous achievements: Previous education or professional experience can be credited upon request - saving time and study fees.

Another advantage: You can test the distance learning course for 1 month without obligation and familiarize yourself with your learning pace and the platform.

Career: Where you work with the IU Bachelor's in Business and IT

With the Bachelor of Science degree in Business and IT, numerous fields of work open up to you at the interface between IT and business - one of the most sought-after areas in the job market:

• Software Development: Development and implementation of applications for companies, e.g. as a software developer or software architect.
• Business Analysis: Analysis and optimization of business processes, requirement management, e.g. as a business analyst or process manager.
• IT Consulting: Consulting companies on the use and implementation of new IT solutions, such as IT consultant or ERP consultant.
• Project Management: Project management, coordination of teams and resources.
• Data Analyst or Data Engineer: Preparation, analysis, and visual preparation of large amounts of data.
• Specialised Areas: AI expertise, IT security management, SAP, Salesforce, or Dynamics 365 consulting, and much more.

Digitalization ensures that business informaticians are in demand in almost all industries - from start-ups to medium-sized companies to international corporations. Depending on your specialization, you bring either particularly strategic, technical, or organizational knowledge.

Costs & Financing options at a glance

The tuition fees for the distance learning course in Business and IT at IU International University depend on the chosen time model:

• Full-time (36 months): from €399 per month (total costs approx. €15,063, including graduation fee)
• Part-time I (48 months): from €344 per month (total costs approx. €17,211)
• Part-time II (72 months): from €259 per month (total costs approx. €19,347)
• One-time graduation fee at the end of the study (approx. €699)

Study materials (printed and digital), access to the learning platform and AI, tutorials, online library, as well as additional offers such as MS Office and LinkedIn Learning are included. A free extension is possible for up to 12 months.

Financing options:

• Regular discount promotions (e.g. discounts on tuition fees, iPad, or completion bonus)
• BAföG (if the requirements are met), student loans, e.g. KfW student loan, or education funds
• Tax deductibility for working professionals possible
• Time savings and fee reduction by recognizing previous achievements (around €30 per recognized ECTS point)
• Flexible payment models according to budget

This way, you keep an eye on your costs and can plan the distance learning course according to your possibilities.